Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
Autocrine signaling is when a cell produces signals that it itself responds to, effectively communicating with itself. This type of signaling plays a crucial role in various processes within the body, such as immune responses and cell growth.
AP course connection
Topic 17.1: 17.1 An Overview of the Endocrine System
A protein molecule that receives and responds to a neurotransmitter or hormone.
Signal Transduction: The process by which a chemical or physical signal is transmitted through a cell as a series of molecular events, most commonly protein phosphorylation catalyzed by protein kinases, leading to a cellular response